007 First light: amazon’s gamble and io’s firm stance
The initial frenzy surrounding IO Interactive’s 007 First Light – a staggering 3 million units sold in just two weeks – has been abruptly tempered by a cloud of uncertainty, fueled by comments from Amazon Gaming boss Jeff Gattis.
A shifting landscape: amazon’s ambitions and io’s continued role
Gattis’ remarks last week, suggesting sequels would be handled by MGM and, theoretically, Amazon Game Studios, sent ripples through the gaming community. But don’t mistake that for a definitive shift. IO’s CEO, Hakan Abrak, has emphatically clarified the situation, dismissing Gattis’ statement as a misinterpretation.
“Let the game breathe” – io’s unwavering commitment
“Let me be clear,” Gattis stated during the Summer Game Fest, “I did not confirm Amazon Game Studios is publishing the next one. I didn’t say that. Unfortunately, it got picked up, and once it runs, it runs.” A visit to IO’s Copenhagen studio just a couple of months ago, he noted, revealed a project still surging forward. “IO’s been great. They’ve been great partners.”
The concern, understandably, is rooted in the considerable investment poured into First Light – the most expensive game IO has ever undertaken. Abrak assured IGN that despite the hefty price tag, “There’s some royalty models and whatnot around this, but we are well above our forecasts at this point.” The team is projecting similar cost efficiencies for future titles, anticipating a reduction in development expenses following the success of the World of Assassinationseries.
Market appetite drives the narrative
Gattis, pressed on whether the game’s potential profitability served as a green light for future installments, offered a blunt response: “Seems like a sequel should be made.” It’s not a guarantee, of course, but a promising sign for fans yearning for more from the Hitman studio’s Bond origin story. “Trust that we’re going to be smart about this,” Gattis emphasized. “It’s market appetite. As long as we feel there’s a desire for players to have the game, it’s safe to say it’s going to be made.”
The initial 9/10 review from IGN – praising First Light’s “demonstrably obsessed” approach to bringing the Bond fantasy to life – underscores the high bar IO has set. Sean Connery, Lazenby, and even the more flamboyant Roger Moore have all shaped the iconic spy, but IO's interpretation represents a novel approach, arguably exceeding previous iterations.
Simon Cardy, Senior Editor at IGN, noted the team’s dedication to crafting a truly immersive experience, complete with detailed guides to unlock achievements, master stealth, locate collectibles, and decipher safe combinations. He’s currently delving into the intricacies of the game, ensuring readers have every advantage.
The situation remains fluid, but one thing is clear: IO Interactive isn’t relinquishing its claim on James Bond. Amazon’s involvement, for now, seems destined to remain a peripheral consideration – a potential avenue, not a predetermined path.